Jonathan Shapiro
How long have you been making art?
Ever since I could remember, I was drawn to taking things apart and putting them back together in ways that felt more useful, more meaningful, or just more interesting to me.
How do you begin a new piece?
I usually work on multiple pieces at a time so it's a process of listening deeply to what I am drawn towards at the moment.
Do you have a vision of the finished sculpture before you begin?
Not at all. I have some kernal of an idea or direction but it then becomes a real-time dance of discovery and self exploration; making decisions, negotiating with materials and factoring in feelings and emotions.
Who are your artistic influences?
I find inspiration from a wide variety of artistic forms. Some notables are Noguchi, Calder, Thaddeus Mosley & Pearljam.
Ever since I could remember, I was drawn to taking things apart and putting them back together in ways that felt more useful, more meaningful, or just more interesting to me.
How do you begin a new piece?
I usually work on multiple pieces at a time so it's a process of listening deeply to what I am drawn towards at the moment.
Do you have a vision of the finished sculpture before you begin?
Not at all. I have some kernal of an idea or direction but it then becomes a real-time dance of discovery and self exploration; making decisions, negotiating with materials and factoring in feelings and emotions.
Who are your artistic influences?
I find inspiration from a wide variety of artistic forms. Some notables are Noguchi, Calder, Thaddeus Mosley & Pearljam.
Biography
My art life began as a child in the ceramics studio and gardens of my mother. She was constantly exploring the creative potential of objects, and I was surrounded by the beauty of nature and of her clay forms. From a very young age, I began expressing myself through art. It was the vehicle through which I related to the world. I found myself drawn to taking things apart and putting them back together in ways that felt more useful, more meaningful, or just more interesting to me.
I create sculpture from natural materials and assemblages of found objects. I take great inspiration from the work of Noguchi, Brancusi and Calder. Closer to home, I’m fortunate to call Thaddeus Mosley a friend and teacher.
I create sculpture from natural materials and assemblages of found objects. I take great inspiration from the work of Noguchi, Brancusi and Calder. Closer to home, I’m fortunate to call Thaddeus Mosley a friend and teacher.